SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D- Chicago) released the following statement after Gov. Bruce Rauner’s State of the State address:

“The governor has once again failed to lay out a plan that will allow us to work together and move our state forward. Today’s address continues the governor’s standard practice of making speeches long on rhetoric and short on action.

The governor may continue to act as if he is not in charge or has no role in the out-migration of Illinois families and businesses, but the reality is he owns many of the challenges the state of Illinois faces because of his inability to work cooperatively with the General Assembly.

For nearly three years, the governor held our state hostage in favor of a political agenda aimed at lowering middle class wages and increasing corporate profits. It took the legislature overriding his veto to restore a sense of stability across the state.

It’s great that the governor talks about bipartisanship, and I have shown I am willing to work with him, but it’s time for him to actually put those words into action and work across the aisle. The people of Illinois want us to join forces to bring needed jobs to struggling areas, improve our schools and make our communities safer. They aren’t interested in hollow promises and general statements.

We will know if the governor is serious about being in charge when he presents us with a real, balanced financial plan for the state. That’s his responsibility, and I hope he takes it seriously this year.”

SPRINGFIELD – Elgie R. Sims, Jr. (D-Chicago) was sworn in today as State Senator of the 17th District. He released the following statement:

“It is my distinct honor to accept this appointment to succeed an outstanding legislator and tireless community advocate, State Senator Donne E. Trotter. I want to thank Senator Trotter for his many years of service to the people of this diverse district with its rich history, culture and amazing people, and for his work in improving the quality of life for all of the citizens of the state of Illinois. His unwavering commitment to the mentorship of young people, including both non-elected and elected officials alike, myself included, is a testament to his desire to move our great state forward.